Ep 500 - The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium #1), by Stieg Larsson
Nov 1, 2021
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In the 500th episode, the hosts go to Sweden and solve a murder, while discussing classic Macintosh computers. They explore the author's background and inspiration, the portrayal of computer hackers, and the importance of technology in the book. They also delve into themes of exploitation and power, uncover disturbing connections, and reveal dark secrets of a CEO. The hosts reflect on fandom and express gratitude towards listeners.
01:35:57
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Quick takeaways
Shoe leather investigative work in storytelling is more engaging and captivating compared to passive deduction.
The protagonist uncovers clues and connections in a series of murders, revealing unexpected twists and personal relationships.
Financial crimes linked to the past and a web of Nazis and family secrets are revealed through the investigation of Harriet's disappearance.
Deep dives
Mika Bloomquist takes on a mysterious job from Henrik Vanger
Mika, a disgraced journalist, accepts a job from Henrik Vanger to write a biography of his family and investigate the disappearance of his niece Harriet.
Elizabeth Sounder faces abuse and seeks revenge
Elizabeth, a socially isolated and skilled investigator, deals with a sadistic and abusive guardian. She embarks on a revenge plan against him, seeking justice for herself and others.
Mika and Elizabeth's paths intersect as they uncover the truth
Mika returns from serving time in jail and begins a romantic relationship with Cecilia. As they work on the Vanger case, Mika and Elizabeth's paths eventually cross, leading them to uncover clues and insights into Harriet's disappearance.
The mysteries surrounding Harriet start to unravel
Through their joint efforts, Mika and Elizabeth discover connections between Harriet's disappearance and financial crimes linked to Vanger's past. As they delve deeper, they uncover a web of Nazis, family secrets, and a locked-room mystery that holds the key to Harriet's fate.
Investigative work and unraveling the mystery
The podcast episode explores the appeal of books that involve shoe leather investigative work as opposed to those where the protagonist simply ponders in a room until a conclusion is reached. The speaker highlights that the former type of storytelling, which includes actively pursuing evidence and unraveling mysteries, is more interesting and engaging for the audience. They make a comparison with Dan Brown's novels, pointing out that the investigative work in the podcast's subject is much more genuine and captivating.
Unveiling a web of murders and personal connections
The podcast delves into the revelation of a series of murders that occurred between 1949 and 1966, with a focus on finding connections to the main character's family. While investigating, the protagonist uncovers clues such as distinctive clothing and the presence of specific individuals in photographs. Additionally, the podcast episode discusses personal relationships and the complexities of family dynamics, including the protagonist's evolving relationship with a colleague. The investigation takes unexpected turns, leading to the discovery that a key person presumed dead is actually alive and connected to important family matters.
For the Big 500, we go to Sweden to solve a murder and also some financial crimes. And much like The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, we also go on at some length about the specs of classic Macintosh computers.
